Ferry safety checks ahead of Eid travel rush

Ferries are being checked for safety measures, the Maldives Coast Guard said Tuesday, as the country gears up for a holiday travel rush.

Although Eid al-Adha begins August 21 and public holidays start on August 19, boats and flights are booked up from this Thursday.

Thousands of people are expected to use ferries to travel to islands.

The Coast Guard is checking marine VHF radios and if captains have a license. It is an annual operation to see if boats comply with the measures specified in the safety certificate for sea travel, the Maldives National Defence Force said.

Vessels coming in and out of Malé harbour will be checked and MNDF area stations across the country are carrying out the operation.

The MNDF started the operation as the Maldives experienced heavy rains, rough seas and bad weather.